Attention Deficit Disorder

Attention Deficit Disorder, ADD, can be characterized by the following symptoms of inattention which are present for at least six months:

Difficulty paying close attention to details or careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities
Difficulty keeping attention on tasks or play activities
Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
Does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or work duties (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions)
Difficulty organizing activities
Avoids, dislikes, or doesn’t want to do things that take sustained mental effort
Loses things needed for tasks and activities (e.g. toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools)
Easily distracted
Forgetfulness in daily activities

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD, is also characterized by the following symptoms of hyperactivity which are present for at least six months:

Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms
Difficulty staying in seat when expected
Restlessness, for children – running or climbing about when it is not appropriate
Difficulty playing or enjoying leisure activities quietly
Acts as if “driven by a motor” and is constantly “on the go”
Excessive talking

Symptoms of impulsivity also include:

Blurting out answers before questions have been finished
Difficulty waiting turns
Interrupting or intruding on others

We offer assessment and therapy to address these issues of ADD and ADHD in our offices near Pittsburgh in Wexford, Robinson Township and Squirrel Hill. We also offer parenting coaching to help parents of children with ADD or ADHD to deal with their children in the most effective way possible.

ADHD CHECK IN
Summer is a great time to check in with a behavioral mental health clinician regarding ADHD.  For children and teenagers prescribed medication for ADHD by their primary care physician, monitoring for other conditions such as anxiety, depression, oppositional or conduct disorders is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The ADHD Check In consists of a clinical evaluation with focus on school and home adjustment. If no other clinical condition needing treatment is identified, we can be helpful in providing updated information on ADHD, resources for parents, and organizational tips for students.

Call 724-759-7500 to register and schedule an appointment.

Assessment and treatment for ADHD is available in our offices near Pittsburgh in Wexford, Robinson Township, and Squirrel Hill.